Why is Coolibar More Expensive Than Other Brands?

Coolibar’s premium pricing reflects an uncompromising commitment to craftsmanship, meticulous production, high-quality materials, and a reputation built on trust. For over 20 years, we’ve been protecting our customers like friends and family, putting their health and safety at the forefront of everything we do. Unlike major brands, UPF protection isn’t a trend for Coolibar; it’s part of our DNA, our mission, and the reason we exist.

Our fabrics are designed to solve real-world issues and meet the unique needs of people who rely on effective sun protection for their health. Coolibar serves individuals with sun-sensitive medical conditions and those who recognize the long-term value of sun protection, regardless of their activities. From those looking to stay stylish while enjoying time in the sun to those who need full coverage, Coolibar offers multiple levels of protection tailored to specific needs. Here’s why Coolibar is worth the investment.

Craftsmanship: Meticulous Design and Production

Coolibar’s clothing showcases careful craftsmanship, blending science, art, and precision. Every piece is made to provide strong UPF 50+ protection, blocking 98% or more of harmful UVA and UVB rays to keep you safe in the sun.

  • Specialized Weaving Techniques: Coolibar fabrics are woven to create dense, UV-blocking barriers, offering more than just standard coverage. This craftsmanship ensures products like the Women’s Anastasia Elegant Full Coverage Hat and the Women’s Asymmetrical Clara Sun Hat offer effective sun protection in elegant, stylish designs.
  • Engineered Over Years to Solve Real Needs: Coolibar’s proprietary fabrics, such as ZnO™ and 3Ddri™, were developed through years of research to meet the demands of real-life sun exposure. Each fabric offers specific benefits like quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and saltwater resistance, making Coolibar garments ideal for everything from beachwear to active pursuits. For more on the importance of UPF clothing, visit the Skin Cancer Foundation’s UPF Clothing Guide.

Time-Consuming Production: Rigorous Quality Assurance

Creating high-quality, long-lasting sun-protective clothing requires time, and Coolibar’s commitment to quality means that every garment undergoes rigorous testing to ensure lasting effectiveness.

Comprehensive Fabric Testing Protocol

Coolibar’s testing protocol is designed to ensure each fabric meets the highest standards of sun protection:

  • Initial UPF Testing: Every fabric is analyzed in 10 spots to confirm UPF 50+ protection, following AATCC 183 standards to ensure it blocks at least 98% of UVA and UVB rays.
  • Real-Life Simulation Testing: Fabrics are subjected to conditions like sweat, chlorine, saltwater, and sunlight, following standards like ASTM D6544 to guarantee Coolibar garments offer reliable protection even after multiple washes. For more on sun safety practices, check out the CDC’s Sun Safety Tips.

Hand Assembly and Final Testing

Each piece is hand-assembled with precision, ensuring every stitch, seam, and fit is made to last. Coolibar’s commitment to quality provides both comfort and durable protection that you can trust over the years.

Manufacturing Costs: Investing in High-Quality Materials

Coolibar’s commitment to quality drives higher manufacturing costs. Years of development and rigorous testing go into each fabric, which is engineered to withstand environmental exposure while maintaining permanent UPF protection.

  • Mineral-Infused Fibers for Lasting Protection: Unlike brands that rely on UV-blocking coatings, Coolibar integrates sun-blocking minerals directly into the fibers, providing enduring protection. This advanced technology ensures that Coolibar fabrics remain effective even after multiple washes, as seen in products like the Women’s Alana Knee-Length Swimsuit.
  • Advanced, Resilient Materials for Real-Life Conditions: Designed to meet practical needs, Coolibar fabrics include features like moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and chlorine resistance, making them ideal for active use. The Women’s Sanibel Everyday Beach Shawl exemplifies Coolibar’s commitment to high-performance, long-lasting sun protection. For more on how protective clothing helps prevent skin issues, visit the WHO’s Guide on Sun Protection.

Brand Reputation: A Trusted Name in Sun Protection

Coolibar’s dedication to sun protection has built a reputation over two decades as the most trusted name in UPF clothing, solidified by The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation.

  • Mission-Driven Innovation: Coolibar was founded to meet a real need for long-term sun protection. For those with sun-related medical conditions who rely on effective UPF-rated clothing, Coolibar provides essential products that offer peace of mind. Unlike brands where UPF protection may come and go, our UPF 50+ protection is integral to our mission.
  • Protecting Our Customers Like Family: For Coolibar, our customers are more than clients—they’re like family. Whether you’re seeking sun protection for health reasons or as preventive care, Coolibar’s garments provide reassurance and confidence, backed by dermatologist recommendations and trusted by the medical community. Learn more about the importance of sun protection from Johns Hopkins Sun Safety Tips.

An Investment in Your Health 

Choosing Coolibar is an investment in your health. Skin damage from UV exposure accumulates over time, and Coolibar’s scientifically engineered UPF 50+ fabrics provide essential protection. With Coolibar, you’re choosing a long-term defense against UV damage, with products built to keep you safe in the sun. For general tips on sun safety, see the Mayo Clinic’s Sunburn Prevention Guide.

Why Coolibar is Worth the Investment

Coolibar is dedicated to protecting people like friends and family. From the years of development in our proprietary fabrics to rigorous testing and premium craftsmanship, every Coolibar garment is designed to perform, last, and keep you safe. Our products, from the Women’s Iztapa Beach Shirt to the Ultimate Golf Visor, are crafted with your health, comfort, and protection in mind.

With over 20 years of expertise in sun protection, Coolibar provides sun safety you can trust, making each piece a worthy investment. When you wear Coolibar, you’re investing in lifelong skin health and enjoying peace of mind from a brand that truly cares about your safety. For further information on the importance of protective clothing, refer to the FDA’s Sun Protection Guide.


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